King James Version

What Does 1 Corinthians 14:13 Mean?

1 Corinthians 14:13 in the King James Version says “Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.” — study this verse from 1 Corinthians chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.”

1 Corinthians 14:13 · KJV

Prayer

Context

11

Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me.

12

Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. of spiritual gifts: Gr. of spirits

13

Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.

14

For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.

15

What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.

Read 1 Corinthians 14 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret—Paul's practical command: the tongues-speaker should proseuchesthō hina diermēneuē (προσευχέσθω ἵνα διερμηνεύῃ, "pray that he might interpret"). This assumes (1) interpretation is a distinct gift from tongues, (2) it can be sought through prayer, (3) the same person can potentially exercise both gifts.

Paul doesn't say "stop speaking in tongues"; he says "pray for interpretation." This transforms tongues from self-edifying to church-edifying speech. The command places responsibility on the tongues-speaker: if you're going to exercise this gift publicly, ensure it edifies by seeking the interpretation gift. Love (chapter 13) compels this: don't settle for self-edification when you could serve the body.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This instruction suggests some Corinthians were content to speak in tongues without interpretation, valuing the experience itself. Paul insists on accountability: if you exercise the gift publicly, make it profitable for all.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why does Paul place the burden of seeking interpretation on the tongues-speaker?
  2. What does it mean to 'pray that he may interpret'—is interpretation automatic or sought?
  3. How does this verse show Paul's pastoral wisdom (not forbidding, but regulating)?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 7 words
διόπερ1 of 7

“Wherefore”

G1355

on which very account

ὁ2 of 7
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

λαλῶν3 of 7

“let him that speaketh”

G2980

to talk, i.e., utter words

γλώσσῃ4 of 7

“in an unknown tongue”

G1100

the tongue; by implication, a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)

προσευχέσθω5 of 7

“pray”

G4336

to pray to god, i.e., supplicate, worship

ἵνα6 of 7

“that”

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

διερμηνεύῃ7 of 7

“he may interpret”

G1329

to explain thoroughly, by implication, to translate

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Corinthians 14:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Corinthians 14:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 14:13-14Mark 11:241 Corinthians 12:30Acts 4:29-311 Corinthians 12:10Acts 1:14

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